🏉 Intro to Women’s Elite Rugby (WER)
Women's Elite Rugby (WER) is set to make history in March 2025 as the first semi-professional women's rugby union league in the United States. This groundbreaking initiative aims to elevate women's rugby by providing a platform for elite competition and fostering the sport's growth nationwide.
Origins and Development
The journey toward WER began in 2022 with the "Ignite the Change" campaign, initiated by the Women's Premier League (WPL). Recognizing the limitations of the existing amateur, pay-to-play model, the campaign sought to professionalize women's rugby in the U.S. By mid-2023, a dedicated board of directors was established to oversee the creation of a for-profit professional league.
Gearing Up for the U.S. to Host 2028 Olympics & 2033 Women’s Rugby World Cup
This strategic move aimed to capitalize on the rising popularity of women's sports and the anticipation surrounding major upcoming events, such as the 2028 Olympic rugby sevens tournament and the 2033 Women's Rugby World Cup, both slated to be hosted in the United States. A key objective was to retain top American talent, as many elite players had been competing overseas due to the lack of professional opportunities domestically.
In April 2024, WER was officially unveiled, announcing its inaugural season for the following year. The league's leadership, including President Jessica Hammond-Graf, Vice President Katherine Aversano, and Executive Adviser Phil Camm, emphasized their commitment to achieving profitability by the third season.
League Structure and Teams
WER's inaugural season will feature six teams strategically located in cities with rich rugby histories:
Bay Breakers: Based in Lodi, California, playing at the Grape Bowl Stadium
Boston Banshees: Representing Boston, Massachusetts, with home games at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy and select matches at Tidewater Landing Stadium in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
Chicago Tempest: Located in Evanston, Illinois, hosting games at Martin Stadium.
Denver Onyx: Based in Glendale, Colorado, with home fixtures at Infinity Park.
New York Exiles: Representing New York City, playing at The Stadium at Memorial Field in Mount Vernon.
Twin Cities Gemini: Located in Eagan, Minnesota, with home games at TCO Stadium.
Each team is managed by investor-operators who hold shares in WER, ensuring a unified vision and collaborative growth. The league controls player and personnel recruitment to uphold competitive balance and operational standards. Teams can sign up to thirty players, each receiving monthly stipends throughout the season, marking a significant shift from the previous amateur framework.
What's Next?
WER's establishment signifies a monumental advancement for women's rugby in the United States. By transitioning to a semi-professional model, the league aspires to enhance the sport's visibility, attract sponsorships, and provide athletes with the resources necessary to excel. The strategic timing aligns with the broader objective of strengthening the U.S. rugby landscape ahead of hosting international events, thereby inspiring a new generation of players and fans.
As the March 2025 kickoff approaches, anticipation is building among supporters and stakeholders. WER is poised to not only redefine women's rugby domestically but also to set a precedent for the sport's development globally.
With a foundation rooted in inclusivity, professionalism, and excellence, Women's Elite Rugby is on track to become a cornerstone of American sports culture!
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